1983 Austin Maestro vs. 1959 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1983 Austin Maestro is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Austin Maestro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Austin Maestro (86 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Austin Maestro should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Austin Maestro weights approximately 404 kg more than 1959 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Lotus Elite is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1959 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Austin Maestro, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1983 Austin Maestro (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1983 Austin Maestro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Lotus Elite. 1983 Austin Maestro has automatic transmission and 1959 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1959 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Austin Maestro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Maestro | 1959 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | Maestro | Elite |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1216 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2240 mm |
